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Remote Conservation Planner Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Remote Conservation Planner information

What is a remote conservation planner?

Remote conservation planners are professionals who develop and implement strategies to protect natural resources and biodiversity, often working from remote locations rather than on-site. They use digital tools, GIS mapping, and virtual collaboration to assess habitats, design conservation plans, and coordinate with stakeholders. This role allows conservation efforts to be managed efficiently across various regions, leveraging technology to monitor and plan environmental projects without always being physically present in the field.

How does a remote conservation planner typically collaborate with field teams and stakeholders despite working off-site?

As a Remote Conservation Planner, you will frequently collaborate with field teams, landowners, government agencies, and community groups using digital communication tools such as video conferencing, GIS platforms, and collaborative project management software. Although you may not be on-site daily, regular virtual meetings, shared data platforms, and occasional field visits ensure you stay closely connected with on-the-ground efforts. Building strong virtual relationships and maintaining clear, proactive communication are key to successfully aligning planning strategies with field realities and stakeholder needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote conservation planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Conservation Planner, you need expertise in environmental science, land management, and GIS mapping, usually supported by a relevant degree in ecology, natural resources, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like ArcGIS, remote sensing software, and conservation planning frameworks, as well as certifications such as Certified Conservation Planner, are commonly required. Strong communication, project management, and collaboration skills are essential for coordinating with stakeholders and facilitating remote teamwork. These skills ensure effective development and implementation of conservation strategies, helping to protect natural resources while working efficiently in a virtual environment.

What is the difference between Remote Conservation Planner vs Remote Environmental Consultant?

AspectRemote Conservation PlannerRemote Environmental Consultant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in environmental science, ecology, or related field; certifications like GIS or conservation planning often preferredBachelor's or higher in environmental science, engineering, or related; certifications in environmental impact assessment or sustainability are common
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based or remote, focusing on planning and analysisRemote or on-site, conducting assessments, reports, and advising clients
Industry UsageUsed in conservation projects, land management, and habitat preservationApplied across environmental impact assessments, compliance, and consulting services

The Remote Conservation Planner and Remote Environmental Consultant roles share similar educational backgrounds and often work remotely. However, conservation planners focus more on land and habitat planning, while environmental consultants provide broader environmental assessments and compliance advice. Both roles are vital in environmental projects and frequently overlap in skills and industry usage.

What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation Planner jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Conservation Planner jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Conservation Planner jobs in Illinois?

For Remote Conservation Planner jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Conservation Planner jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Conservation Planner jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Remote Conservation Planner jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Remote Conservation Planner job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Conservation Planner job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Education Program Specialist

Campus, IL • On-site, Remote

The Pennsylvania State University
Education • 11 - 50 employees

$54K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Penn State Nutrient Management Education Program (NMEP) is hiring an Education Program Specialist. This is a new position with the NMEP.

POSITION SPECIFICS:

The NMEP is a small team of specialist housed in the Penn State Department of Plant Science at the University Park Campus that works closely with, and is considered a part of, Penn State Extension. Current NMEP staff is very experienced with advanced skills in outreach, research, and teaching. The successful candidate is expected to possess complimentary talent that will enhance impact and future directions of the NMEP.

The Education Program Specialist will be an integral team member of the NMEP to support accreditation of the Pennsylvania Act 38 and Act 49 programs. The employee will participate in organization and instruction of state-mandated certification trainings under the approved contract between Penn State and the State Conservation Commission of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The specialist will also provide continuing education training, real-time technical assistance to users, and reporting to the State Conservation Commission. The specialist will act as a liaison to advance state NMEP environmental goals with agencies, industry, Extension teams, and internal stakeholders. They will attend routine organizing meetings of these NMEP partners and serve on committees as needed. The individual will participate in identifying and providing solutions for complex challenges, working individually, as a team member, and as a project leader.

They will participate in development, organization, and instruction of educational outreach of the Pennsylvania Nutrient and Odor Management Plans and associated planning tools. This outreach includes leading coordination of certification programming events. As needed, this duty includes development of outreach user guides, news articles, and continuing education presentations. State regulations mandate that these planning tools be utilized by certified individuals, and it is paramount that a skilled specialist oversees scholarship of this critical program component and ensures delivery of quality products. Demand for outreach materials and education will increase and be integral to implementation of expanding programs. The specialist will work with Penn State Extension to provide crossover educational programming and continuing education.

The successful applicant must have strong agricultural and conservation foundations.

The position is supported with funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture/State Conservation Commission. While the position is in a fixed-term category, it should be noted that stable continuous funding of the NMEP has been in place since the 1990's. The position is critical to support state water quality goals, especially as they pertain to agricultural pollutants.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (OR LOCATION):

This position has the opportunity to work remotely or a hybrid schedule.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $78,444.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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